Thelma Owen from Sandton turns 100 years old
Thelma Owen, at 100 years old, embodies the wisdom of a lifetime filled with love, hard work, and reflection.
Celebrating a remarkable 100 years of life, Thelma Owen, born on November 24, 1924, has witnessed profound changes in the world around her, and she has lived a life full of experiences, love, and valuable lessons.
With a heart full of gratitude, her family, friends, and loved ones celebrated the milestones, memories, and lessons that have shaped her into the incredible woman she is today on her birthday in Sandton.
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Owen shared how it felt to be 100. “My mind is strong but my body is failing me,” she said.
Her mind, still sharp and alert, keeps her engaged with the world, especially as she embraces modern technology.
“I play solitaire on my iPad and read books on a Kindle, but I still prefer the feel of a good old-fashioned book in my hands.”
Owen added one of her fondest memories took her back to a childhood moment. “It was when my gran picked my mother out for feeding me castor oil.”
She said she had also witnessed the world change dramatically over the years, and she saw technology, particularly the rise of information technology, as the most significant shift.
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However, Owen believes that some things, such as family bonds and positive values, remain timeless.
Growing up, she was inspired by many but one figure stood out above the rest.
“Queen Elizabeth was an amazing woman in the way she handled her colonies, and till today I admire the Queen’s strength and grace.”
Through her own life, Thelma has also passed down a legacy of wisdom.
“Listen more and talk less. Do not have negatives in your life. Be positive always.”
Owen said there were many stories from her rich life but one that stood out was her journey to Pretoria, when she was pregnant and travelling on a goods train to the leprosarium.
“I met some wonderful and interesting people there, and I spent six months there.”
Owen’s proudest achievements span both personal and professional realms.
A talented sportswoman, she played first-team hockey and netball. She also raised seven wonderful children and ran her own business, specialising in wedding dresses.
“I had my own drapery and video business.”
She said she still prides herself on that, and her secret to a fulfilling life was a mix of both practical and simple pleasures.
“Do not use the microwave; I believe it causes cancer, and take a lot of brandy and ginger ale as part of the recipe for longevity.”
Her sweet advice to the younger generation is simple and short.
“Live a clean, healthy life and respect your elders, and when it comes to staying happy and healthy, eating fresh vegetables from your garden is key. Try not to listen to scandals and love everyone, and have no enemies.”
Looking back on her 99 years of life, she expresses no major regrets.
“I wish I had travelled more. I am grateful for never being materialistic.”
Her birthday was a celebration surrounded by family and friends, enjoying a picnic in her garden.
“I have a large family and circle of friends. I am very grateful for them.”
She concluded by saying that looking to the future, her wish was to be more forgiving and live happily.
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